Northampton Saints
Saints v Worcester Match Thread - Teams Up
By Saint Ted
October 21 2021
This is the Saints v Worcester match thread
Who:
Northampton Saints v Worcester Warriors
When:
Friday 22nd October 2021 19:45
Where:
Franklins Gardens
How do I watch:
BT Sport
Click here for more team news and tickets
Officials:
Referee: Ian Tempest
Assistant referees: Karl Dickson and Christophe Ridley
No.4: Simon Harding
TMO: Adam Leal
Teams
Not considered for selection:
Matthew Arden, Callum Burns, George Furbank, Oisín Heffernan, Dani Long-Martinez, Ollie Newman, Matt Proctor and JJ Tonks.
Digg
Delicious
Facebook
Reddit
StumbleuponSaints v Worcester Match Thread - Teams Up
Discussion started by Marching On , 21/10/2021 12:10
Marching On
21/10/2021 12:10
21/10/2021 12:10
What do you think? You can have your say by posting below.
If you do not already have an account Click here to Register.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2021:10:28:08:55:55 by Saint Ted.
If you do not already have an account Click here to Register.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2021:10:28:08:55:55 by Saint Ted.
Great to see Piers on the bench.
Excited to see Skosan in action.
Love a Friday night game.
What's not to like!
Excited to see Skosan in action.
Love a Friday night game.
What's not to like!
Because Paul Hill is actually a centre! Joking aside I'm not sure, I don't think Worcester have the biggest pack around so it isn't as if there needs to be 6 replacement forwards to counter.
Now Francis is back I presume he's covering 10 but that's a fairly big ask if Biggar takes a knock ten minutes in. Looking forward to seeing Skosan's first run out and more of Manny off the bench. I'd probably be happier with either Francis or Proctor in the midfield but if that backline does click it will do a lot of damage.
I think Worcester will be looking for a reaction to their last game as will we, if we get some momentum I think we'll look good but if they do play well, control and spoil it may be a different story.
Now Francis is back I presume he's covering 10 but that's a fairly big ask if Biggar takes a knock ten minutes in. Looking forward to seeing Skosan's first run out and more of Manny off the bench. I'd probably be happier with either Francis or Proctor in the midfield but if that backline does click it will do a lot of damage.
I think Worcester will be looking for a reaction to their last game as will we, if we get some momentum I think we'll look good but if they do play well, control and spoil it may be a different story.
Not a front row expert, or even that knowledgable so my thoughts may be off kilter.
Seeing that Worcester do not have the biggest pack out, would it make more sense to start with Manny and Painter, bigger and heavier, to tire their front row quicker leaving more opportunity for the more mobile Hill and Waller.
Kvesic is still a pain at the breakdown our backrow will need to be on their toes to ensure we retain the ball.
Oli will have his work cut out keeping Van der Merwe quite.
Looking forward to seeing Skosan and what he brings to the party.
Friday night, can enjoy a few beers and shout the team on.
Seeing that Worcester do not have the biggest pack out, would it make more sense to start with Manny and Painter, bigger and heavier, to tire their front row quicker leaving more opportunity for the more mobile Hill and Waller.
Kvesic is still a pain at the breakdown our backrow will need to be on their toes to ensure we retain the ball.
Oli will have his work cut out keeping Van der Merwe quite.
Looking forward to seeing Skosan and what he brings to the party.
Friday night, can enjoy a few beers and shout the team on.
Have Nansen and Wilkins been banished to Bedford for the season
? I’m sure they must be fit and ready to feature for saints by now.
"I HAVE A BIG ONE".
? I’m sure they must be fit and ready to feature for saints by now.
"I HAVE A BIG ONE".
With only Furbank and Proctor unavailable who might make the squad that is probably as near to a full strength side as we will see all season and against a pretty out of sorts side, we really need to make a statement.
The 6-2 split is interesting I get the idea of players covering multiple positions but it means we offer little in the way of fresh legs or a different kind of threat as the game wears on. I am pretty sure I read somewhere we score a very high percentage of our tries early in games and very few late on. I wonder if this is a factor in that and if so is it part of a plan?
The 6-2 split is interesting I get the idea of players covering multiple positions but it means we offer little in the way of fresh legs or a different kind of threat as the game wears on. I am pretty sure I read somewhere we score a very high percentage of our tries early in games and very few late on. I wonder if this is a factor in that and if so is it part of a plan?
I've given up trying to understand the logic behind selections.
I don't like starting Hill, as I stated last time out, he offers so much more mobility in the last 30 minutes. I continue to hold reservations about the props all round.
The rest of the pack, I think picks itself. Nice to see Tee and Trokky get rotated. Maybe he's the last 30 runner?
Backs - strange thing to say, but we need a good game from Dan. If he's quiet, the rest of that line will be wasted. If he's on form....look out Worcester.
As someone said on the Hunch thread, they could be looking for a bounce back reaction, so fingers crossed.
And I know it's tempting fate, but we really should be able to beat Worcester!
I don't like starting Hill, as I stated last time out, he offers so much more mobility in the last 30 minutes. I continue to hold reservations about the props all round.
The rest of the pack, I think picks itself. Nice to see Tee and Trokky get rotated. Maybe he's the last 30 runner?
Backs - strange thing to say, but we need a good game from Dan. If he's quiet, the rest of that line will be wasted. If he's on form....look out Worcester.
As someone said on the Hunch thread, they could be looking for a bounce back reaction, so fingers crossed.
And I know it's tempting fate, but we really should be able to beat Worcester!
Will be really great to see Manny get an opportunity but what’s happened to Danny H-A. Last mention on here or in the Chron was he was fit and raring to go and if I remember correctly it was said that he was really ripping into the other props in training
Quote:Longers
I've given up trying to understand the logic behind selections.
I don't like starting Hill, as I stated last time out, he offers so much more mobility in the last 30 minutes. I continue to hold reservations about the props all round.
The rest of the pack, I think picks itself. Nice to see Tee and Trokky get rotated. Maybe he's the last 30 runner?
Backs - strange thing to say, but we need a good game from Dan. If he's quiet, the rest of that line will be wasted. If he's on form....look out Worcester.
As someone said on the Hunch thread, they could be looking for a bounce back reaction, so fingers crossed.
And I know it's tempting fate, but we really should be able to beat Worcester!
In all my years of watching team sport, I have never seen a unanimous agreement over a starting team, be it Saints, England, All Blacks or whoever.
So we're going for a 6-2 split again. Is it likely that Lomani's ability to play 9 and wing is encouraging this? Will we see a 5-3 split when he's away with Fiji?
Good to see Mikey Haywood back. I've not been overly impressed with Fish of late and there's only so much 'playing yourself into form' that a side can carry, especially when hooker is such a critical position.
I'd like to think that Haywood's lineouts are more consistent than Fish's so fingers crossed.
Worcester may well be looking for a reaction but I'd be very disappointed if we weren't look for the same. Our performance against Wasps wasn't good enough and following a bye week, we should be looking to really put Warriors to the sword. Weather looks like it will bring our kind of conditions so i'm hoping for at least 4 tries.
Good to see Mikey Haywood back. I've not been overly impressed with Fish of late and there's only so much 'playing yourself into form' that a side can carry, especially when hooker is such a critical position.
I'd like to think that Haywood's lineouts are more consistent than Fish's so fingers crossed.
Worcester may well be looking for a reaction but I'd be very disappointed if we weren't look for the same. Our performance against Wasps wasn't good enough and following a bye week, we should be looking to really put Warriors to the sword. Weather looks like it will bring our kind of conditions so i'm hoping for at least 4 tries.
Tommy can play 15 or wing. Dingwall can play 12,13 or wing. Rory can play 10, 12, 13, 15, probably wing. Piers can play 10 or 12. Skosan can play wing or 15. Lomani can play 9 or wing, maybe 15. It would be very unlucky/unlikely to lose 3 backs to injury, as such 6-2 works.
6-2 comes with a risk. Which we saw against Wasps. Proctor went off injured and Hutchinson replaces. No problem.
Then Furbank goes off at half time and Lomani comes onto the wing with Freeman at full back. Again maybe no problem.
But then what could we do to try and change the game?
I can understand a 6-2 when playing Irish in torrential rain but we're proud of our attacking backs. So why not play them?
Then Furbank goes off at half time and Lomani comes onto the wing with Freeman at full back. Again maybe no problem.
But then what could we do to try and change the game?
I can understand a 6-2 when playing Irish in torrential rain but we're proud of our attacking backs. So why not play them?
Dowson's take - [www.northamptonchron.co.uk]
Essentially there is a risk but outweighed by the reward - we want to play high tempo so need the pack to be able to get around.
Like everything there is an element of luck involved. Yes I'm sure Hutch can play 10 but not to the same standard as Biggar or Grays. Lomani can play on the wing but has only just made his debut for us etc. Other than back three players and lock/6 hybrids like Lawes or Itoje I'm struggling to think of many players who are equally effective at two positions. Proctor being another good example - I can't remember him ever letting us down playing on the wong but we look a lot better when he's at 13.
Not an issue if someone has to close out 5/10 minutes in a different position but a different story if someone comes off after 5-10 mins.
Clearly the whole front row need to be covered even if you didn't use the subs so that's three spots gone. Good to have the impact of Teimana on for Trokkie or vice versa but they're both perfectly capable of playing full games (in the knowledge they won't need to play every game).
The coaching team making these calls have a lot more knowledge and experience than I do but it does seem like the advantage of an extra boost in the forwards versus an extra back who may not be used can be very easily outweighed by a knock or two in the backs. It isn't just that a player covering another position isn't quite as good there but also the disruption. We still look like we're not as cohesive as we could be and the game we want to play needs that. When you end up with a 9 on the wing, centre at 10 etc it can't help that, especially with newer guys coming in?
Essentially there is a risk but outweighed by the reward - we want to play high tempo so need the pack to be able to get around.
Like everything there is an element of luck involved. Yes I'm sure Hutch can play 10 but not to the same standard as Biggar or Grays. Lomani can play on the wing but has only just made his debut for us etc. Other than back three players and lock/6 hybrids like Lawes or Itoje I'm struggling to think of many players who are equally effective at two positions. Proctor being another good example - I can't remember him ever letting us down playing on the wong but we look a lot better when he's at 13.
Not an issue if someone has to close out 5/10 minutes in a different position but a different story if someone comes off after 5-10 mins.
Clearly the whole front row need to be covered even if you didn't use the subs so that's three spots gone. Good to have the impact of Teimana on for Trokkie or vice versa but they're both perfectly capable of playing full games (in the knowledge they won't need to play every game).
The coaching team making these calls have a lot more knowledge and experience than I do but it does seem like the advantage of an extra boost in the forwards versus an extra back who may not be used can be very easily outweighed by a knock or two in the backs. It isn't just that a player covering another position isn't quite as good there but also the disruption. We still look like we're not as cohesive as we could be and the game we want to play needs that. When you end up with a 9 on the wing, centre at 10 etc it can't help that, especially with newer guys coming in?
Promises to be a great match but it's the weakest group of match officials I have ever seen.
"often wrong - never in doubt"
"often wrong - never in doubt"
Really looking forward to seeing Skosan.
Like others I'm not a fan of the 6/2 split.
Like others I'm not a fan of the 6/2 split.
Very excited to see Skosan play.
Pretty youthful backline, Dingwall v Lawrence will be interesting. Pleased to see Freeman at 15, really rate that kid.
Pretty youthful backline, Dingwall v Lawrence will be interesting. Pleased to see Freeman at 15, really rate that kid.
Quote:LeicesterSaint
Dowson's take - [www.northamptonchron.co.uk]
Essentially there is a risk but outweighed by the reward - we want to play high tempo so need the pack to be able to get around.
Like everything there is an element of luck involved. Yes I'm sure Hutch can play 10 but not to the same standard as Biggar or Grays. Lomani can play on the wing but has only just made his debut for us etc. Other than back three players and lock/6 hybrids like Lawes or Itoje I'm struggling to think of many players who are equally effective at two positions. Proctor being another good example - I can't remember him ever letting us down playing on the wong but we look a lot better when he's at 13.
Not an issue if someone has to close out 5/10 minutes in a different position but a different story if someone comes off after 5-10 mins.
Clearly the whole front row need to be covered even if you didn't use the subs so that's three spots gone. Good to have the impact of Teimana on for Trokkie or vice versa but they're both perfectly capable of playing full games (in the knowledge they won't need to play every game).
The coaching team making these calls have a lot more knowledge and experience than I do but it does seem like the advantage of an extra boost in the forwards versus an extra back who may not be used can be very easily outweighed by a knock or two in the backs. It isn't just that a player covering another position isn't quite as good there but also the disruption. We still look like we're not as cohesive as we could be and the game we want to play needs that. When you end up with a 9 on the wing, centre at 10 etc it can't help that, especially with newer guys coming in?
Only the 9 really needs a replacement for fatigue but still Danny Care regularly plays nearly 80 mins. It’s not often that backs are injured early like the Wasps game. There is another argument about have 5-3 for tactical changes in the backs but I don’t see a huge difference in the way we play (wrongly IMHO) with whoever may come on. We don’t have very different style half backs (Mitchell does more of the defence teasing style but it’s not a huge difference), we don’t have a crash ball 12. Maybe someone like Big T or Collins for footwork can create a try if they’re on the bench but broadly speaking our back subs slot in and we play the same way.
I'd agree with that other than as I mentioned, I think we look more cohesive with Francis at 12 or Proctor at 13 (have they ever played together in those positions? I'm sure they've played in the same side but with Proctor on the wing?). Same gameplan/style of play but just tighter/more organised.
I know 9's cover a lot of ground but plenty do play 80 minutes - not that it matters as you really need a replacement 9 anyway unless maybe you've got a Foden at 15 (or an Italian backrower.....). I suppose you could have a French style 9 who also covers 10 and kicks for goal?
I completely understand the attraction of another forward so your backrowers can blow their lungs out for 50 minutes knowing they'll be coming off but just feel (and that's all it is) that the risk didn't pay off against Wasps and is pretty high risk. I think it is perhaps a lower risk option in a side like Exeter or Sarries where everyone looks clear on the tactics and their role so players are just slotting in but we're not that kind of side. To an extent I don't really want us to be quite like that but I still think we're finding cohesion which makes playing players out of position more risky.
I know 9's cover a lot of ground but plenty do play 80 minutes - not that it matters as you really need a replacement 9 anyway unless maybe you've got a Foden at 15 (or an Italian backrower.....). I suppose you could have a French style 9 who also covers 10 and kicks for goal?
I completely understand the attraction of another forward so your backrowers can blow their lungs out for 50 minutes knowing they'll be coming off but just feel (and that's all it is) that the risk didn't pay off against Wasps and is pretty high risk. I think it is perhaps a lower risk option in a side like Exeter or Sarries where everyone looks clear on the tactics and their role so players are just slotting in but we're not that kind of side. To an extent I don't really want us to be quite like that but I still think we're finding cohesion which makes playing players out of position more risky.
I think covering wing and being a good winger are 2 different issues. Lomani did not play well on wing and last time out Sleights was not at races.
Be good to see what Skosan offers.
Worcester are not a great side.
Be good to see what Skosan offers.
Worcester are not a great side.
A good side and strong bench. I don’t like the 6/2 split either though. Scrum half and fly half axis is key and we should be playing our best players in those positions. Grayson was part of a very successful youth side and needs more encouragement. I think that he should be on the bench as back up to Biggar.
Quote:St Saltaire
A good side and strong bench. I don’t like the 6/2 split either though. Scrum half and fly half axis is key and we should be playing our best players in those positions. Grayson was part of a very successful youth side and needs more encouragement. I think that he should be on the bench as back up to Biggar.
+1
Quote:ramseysaintQuote:St Saltaire
A good side and strong bench. I don’t like the 6/2 split either though. Scrum half and fly half axis is key and we should be playing our best players in those positions. Grayson was part of a very successful youth side and needs more encouragement. I think that he should be on the bench as back up to Biggar.
+1
It’s a waste of a bench spot, he wouldn’t get on unless Biggar got injured or be playing out of position in event of others being injured and there are more versatile plays to do that. It’s no sleight on James ability that he doesn’t make the bench. Same applies to Biggar too, because if he had more than one string to his bow it would make more sense for James to be on bench, the fact neither can play elsewhere effectively means it’s one or the other in the 23. Biggar will be away soon enough and more opportunities for James
Quote:Walks11Quote:ramseysaintQuote:St Saltaire
A good side and strong bench. I don’t like the 6/2 split either though. Scrum half and fly half axis is key and we should be playing our best players in those positions. Grayson was part of a very successful youth side and needs more encouragement. I think that he should be on the bench as back up to Biggar.
+1
It’s a waste of a bench spot, he wouldn’t get on unless Biggar got injured or be playing out of position in event of others being injured and there are more versatile plays to do that. It’s no sleight on James ability that he doesn’t make the bench. Same applies to Biggar too, because if he had more than one string to his bow it would make more sense for James to be on bench, the fact neither can play elsewhere effectively means it’s one or the other in the 23. Biggar will be away soon enough and more opportunities for James
+1
Walks - I can see your point. It’s a risk either way. Unless injured the backs shouldn’t need subbing but there’s no way of knowing if and who will be injured. I would guess that Biggar is more likely than most to go off for HIA because of the tackling that he gets through. I’m glad I’m not a selector!
Quote:I doubt if it's true that neither can play elsewhere. They never seem to do so but it's not as though they'd be asked to play tight head.Walks11
It’s a waste of a bench spot, he wouldn’t get on unless Biggar got injured or be playing out of position in event of others being injured and there are more versatile plays to do that. It’s no sleight on James ability that he doesn’t make the bench. Same applies to Biggar too, because if he had more than one string to his bow it would make more sense for James to be on bench, the fact neither can play elsewhere effectively means it’s one or the other in the 23.
Worcester have a really good set of backs. Tigers and Exeter beat them through beating them up in the forwards, particularly at the set piece. So we have a template on how to win - but will we use it?
This is a classic pragmastic v romantic dilemma. I love to see Saints run but my gut says we'll do better playing Worcester's weaknesses and could play ourselves into trouble if we play too loose. .
We haven't been clinical in attack this season and the last thing we want to do with the likes of Lawrence and van de Merwe is cough up easy attacking ball. So I'd favour a pragmatic approach. Take points when on offer. Build a lead. See their heads go down and then be ruthless.
This is a classic pragmastic v romantic dilemma. I love to see Saints run but my gut says we'll do better playing Worcester's weaknesses and could play ourselves into trouble if we play too loose. .
We haven't been clinical in attack this season and the last thing we want to do with the likes of Lawrence and van de Merwe is cough up easy attacking ball. So I'd favour a pragmatic approach. Take points when on offer. Build a lead. See their heads go down and then be ruthless.
Grays played a fair amount at FB for England U21 so I don't think him covering there from the bench is any more a risk than any of the other positional switches we've seen such as Furbank going in the opposite direction. I'm sure Biggar would make a decent fist of centre or FB but we want him at 10 pulling the strings.
No offence to Worcester but I think if we play well in general the bench split won't make much difference. But against Wasps where we were struggling already having players out of position didn't help. As always a slice of luck is involved, had the subs in the backs not been needed then the extra bench forward may have helped us close it out....
No offence to Worcester but I think if we play well in general the bench split won't make much difference. But against Wasps where we were struggling already having players out of position didn't help. As always a slice of luck is involved, had the subs in the backs not been needed then the extra bench forward may have helped us close it out....
Procter has been the difference this year compared to last, Hutch needs to come with his aggressive head on…..mmm
Quote:Hantsaintsrus4
Procter has been the difference this year compared to last, Hutch needs to come with his aggressive head on…..mmm
I think it will do him good to come into the side with a very clear requirement of him and his playmaking. Follow that! (so to speak).
I must say I have been pleased with how much his tackling has improved. The other question will be if he can stay in a line or if he follows his tendency in previous games to shoot out of the line.
I have seen here and on other type boards people mentioning Wilkins and Nausen and when will they start etc?
Is it just me or when we signed them I saw them as squad players to give us a bit of depth? I never saw them because of the level they have been playing at as players really pushing for starting places?
Where as I thought to recruit 3 players that would be in the match day squad was good recruitment
Is it just me or when we signed them I saw them as squad players to give us a bit of depth? I never saw them because of the level they have been playing at as players really pushing for starting places?
Where as I thought to recruit 3 players that would be in the match day squad was good recruitment
A strong Saints presence as usual in the Blues squad this weekend
[bedfordrugby.co.uk]
Nansen, Lichfield, Marshall and Tupai seem to be regular starters and Danny HA and Ethan Grayson in the mix. It can only help with squad depth should we get a run of injuries at any time in the season.
No mention of Wilkins however so no idea where he stands in the pecking order.
[bedfordrugby.co.uk]
Nansen, Lichfield, Marshall and Tupai seem to be regular starters and Danny HA and Ethan Grayson in the mix. It can only help with squad depth should we get a run of injuries at any time in the season.
No mention of Wilkins however so no idea where he stands in the pecking order.
Quote:Sir Hector
A strong Saints presence as usual in the Blues squad this weekend
[bedfordrugby.co.uk]
Nansen, Lichfield, Marshall and Tupai seem to be regular starters and Danny HA and Ethan Grayson in the mix. It can only help with squad depth should we get a run of injuries at any time in the season.
No mention of Wilkins however so no idea where he stands in the pecking order.
He was on the bench for the Blues the other day so has been getting involved.
It really is good to see the link with Bedford giving our guys - and old boys - such opportunities and it’s helping Bedford stay at the right end of the table which must be to the clubs benefit.
Match fitness is very important for fringe players to have the best chance to impress when given a shot
We are doing our best to give Worcester enough opportunity to stay in the game
Best half I have seen from Mitchell
Hutch and Dingwall looking really good
Best half I have seen from Mitchell
Hutch and Dingwall looking really good
Warriors look bereft of confidence. I hope that we keep up the tempo in the second half. I think if we can hold the ball for 10 minutes we should soon be out of sight. Glad Hutch cancelled out the interception.
I thought Skosun slotted in perfectly, receiving kick off (? targeted by worcs), getting try synchronised with Freeman.
Before the match I'm sure I heard Bayfs say Sink Franklins Gardens. Maybe the marketing guys who christened Cinch weren't so clever.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:10:22:20:50:43 by Santiago.
Before the match I'm sure I heard Bayfs say Sink Franklins Gardens. Maybe the marketing guys who christened Cinch weren't so clever.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:10:22:20:50:43 by Santiago.
Top, top finish by Skosan.
Exciting that we are still without big T, Proctor and Furbank.
Exciting that we are still without big T, Proctor and Furbank.
Quote:SantiagoQuote:I doubt if it's true that neither can play elsewhere. They never seem to do so but it's not as though they'd be asked to play tight head.Walks11
It’s a waste of a bench spot, he wouldn’t get on unless Biggar got injured or be playing out of position in event of others being injured and there are more versatile plays to do that. It’s no sleight on James ability that he doesn’t make the bench. Same applies to Biggar too, because if he had more than one string to his bow it would make more sense for James to be on bench, the fact neither can play elsewhere effectively means it’s one or the other in the 23.
I’m sure both could and have at some point an their careers. My point is that there are more versatile players who DO play more than one position that would be a better bench spot.
6-2 split with injury prone players, Sleighthome, Francis isn't wise...
Quote:TommySaint
I would like Piers to quit the game
It’s too much now
Must be at least 4/5 in the last 2 years? Thats staggering.
Well 50-10 up Worcester must be terrible and weren't helped by losing Laurence and Heinz before the game.
Lomani looks good, just Mitchell has been excellent in both positions he has played. Im sure some can find some negatives, I hope so.
Quote:SaintsAsh
Lomani looks good, just Mitchell has been excellent in both positions he has played. Im sure some can find some negatives, I hope so.
See Alex Mitchell is noting a few in his post match interview
Have a go at him
Quote:SaintsAsh
Lomani looks good, just Mitchell has been excellent in both positions he has played. Im sure some can find some negatives, I hope so.
Easy-peasy - that bloke Biggar? Gordon Bennett! He can't even stay on his feet! *
I was as impressed with Mitchell’s defence as attack, twice he tackled Van Der Merwe which was unexpected
Skosan is electric
Lomani is a flamboyant Fijian, good mix up
Skosan is electric
Lomani is a flamboyant Fijian, good mix up
Quote:SaintsAsh
Lomani looks good, just Mitchell has been excellent in both positions he has played. Im sure some can find some negatives, I hope so.
Why so sensitive? We're playing a team who have conceded 40+ points three weeks in a row. We did lots of good stuff, but plenty to work on for sure.
Skosan, Big T and Freeman is a real prospect to look forward to. So many back 3 options now.
Quote:saint krigeQuote:SaintsAsh
Lomani looks good, just Mitchell has been excellent in both positions he has played. Im sure some can find some negatives, I hope so.
Why so sensitive? We're playing a team who have conceded 40+ points three weeks in a row. We did lots of good stuff, but plenty to work on for sure.
Thats more like it 😉
Quote:SaintsAshQuote:saint krigeQuote:SaintsAsh
Lomani looks good, just Mitchell has been excellent in both positions he has played. Im sure some can find some negatives, I hope so.
Why so sensitive? We're playing a team who have conceded 40+ points three weeks in a row. We did lots of good stuff, but plenty to work on for sure.
Thats more like it 😉
Lol. Anyway, a great start to the weekend for Northampton. Be very tough next Saturday - really looking forward to where we are against aresurgent Leicester.
Quote:saint krige
Skosan, Big T and Freeman is a real prospect to look forward to. So many back 3 options now.
Has Tommy bulked up a lost a little bit of acceleration or pace? Maybe just needs game time but feels a bit bigger and slower than last year
Actually thought he looked a little slower today, too. Looked quick/sharp against Wasps tho, so not sure.
Conditioning and Fitness team will be busy repairing some injuries. Hope Bedford aren't playing at the same time next week. We might need some help!
What do some of you want?! I’m just back from a highly entertaining match (for a Saints fan anyway) where we played fast attacking rugby and scored 10 tries. There were some mistakes because we were moving the ball about so quickly but when it was right we were almost unstoppable. Worcester kept trying to play (their 11 always looked dangerous with the ball) but were totally outclassed this evening.
Enjoy the win. Enjoy the confidence it will give the lads. Then let’s knuckle down for Leicester next week and see what happens.
Enjoy the win. Enjoy the confidence it will give the lads. Then let’s knuckle down for Leicester next week and see what happens.
As fun for us as it must have been painful for the Warriors faithful.
That was a statement performance from Mitchell. The sublime quality of passes to the centres running onto the ball at speed. Footwork. Speed of distribution. The dummies from the base of the scrum. Beautiful.
I loved the bravery and commitment Biggar showed for his try. He knew he would get smashed.
Congrats to Skosan on a hatrick debut.
But can we please stop with the 6:2 split. It's caused us problems 2 games in a row.
Now let's spank those Thai girls.
That was a statement performance from Mitchell. The sublime quality of passes to the centres running onto the ball at speed. Footwork. Speed of distribution. The dummies from the base of the scrum. Beautiful.
I loved the bravery and commitment Biggar showed for his try. He knew he would get smashed.
Congrats to Skosan on a hatrick debut.
But can we please stop with the 6:2 split. It's caused us problems 2 games in a row.
Now let's spank those Thai girls.
Lomani has a bullet pass, reminiscent of Kahn.
Fab to be at FG again, but really "Cinch stadium at Franklin's Gardens".... puuuhleese no.
Feel sorry for Wuss, and hope they get back on track soon.
Fab to be at FG again, but really "Cinch stadium at Franklin's Gardens".... puuuhleese no.
Feel sorry for Wuss, and hope they get back on track soon.
Terrific performance from Alex Mitchell : the best I can recall from him.
Watching the game again and really enjoying the analysis from Emily Scarratt (always been impressed with her insight).
You can only beat what's in front of you and ok Worcester were poor but we put them away with ease really.
Great debut from Skosun too.
Well done Saints and on to the big one next week.
Watching the game again and really enjoying the analysis from Emily Scarratt (always been impressed with her insight).
You can only beat what's in front of you and ok Worcester were poor but we put them away with ease really.
Great debut from Skosun too.
Well done Saints and on to the big one next week.
When watching it on thd tv, so often you can see which way the ball needs to go as you have an aerial view. So often and understandably they go the wrong way. What I liked about Mitchel is that saw it fast, pointed the wrong way and passsd the right way, that fake pick up from the base too, sublime.
Great performance - really enjoyed it.
Just watched my BT recording. Mitchell outstanding, Skosun looks very useful, feel for Piers. Look out for Biggar at the end of the game - pure class!
Just watched my BT recording. Mitchell outstanding, Skosun looks very useful, feel for Piers. Look out for Biggar at the end of the game - pure class!
Quote:SaintsAsh
that fake pick up from the base too, sublime.
Posts on Shedweb saying the move was illegal and should have been penalised - anyone know?
Quote:StatesmanQuote:SaintsAsh
that fake pick up from the base too, sublime.
Posts on Shedweb saying the move was illegal and should have been penalised - anyone know?
Biased view but if you dummy at the base it’s illegal. As far as I saw it Mitch doesn’t dummy he runs the other way not making a clear attempt to pick and therefore dummy. The ball is never out as Harrison picks straight away ergo not a dummy from a scrum.
Fantastic display of course but capitalising on a poor Worcester performance. What struck me especially in the first 10 mins or so was the points left on the field. They do need addressing especially before tigers but the score line could have easily been triple figures if all the 2 on 1 passes had found the outside man
I’ve been a critic of Hutch because of his week defence but fair play he really got involved last night, if he plays like that Scotland will be calling again. Poor old Piers, I hope he is not forced out of the game, we are stronger with him but there has to be a point where it is unsafe to go on.
How ever were we talking of relegation at the start of last season?
How ever were we talking of relegation at the start of last season?
Quote:TommySaintQuote:saint krige
Skosan, Big T and Freeman is a real prospect to look forward to. So many back 3 options now.
Has Tommy bulked up a lost a little bit of acceleration or pace? Maybe just needs game time but feels a bit bigger and slower than last year
They said before the game that he'd bulked up - by eating potatoes. At least I think it was Freeman they were referring to.
Quote:StatesmanQuote:SaintsAsh
that fake pick up from the base too, sublime.
Posts on Shedweb saying the move was illegal and should have been penalised - anyone know?
It is exactly the same move that Exeter used against wasps last week, we used it a few times last night. As to if it is illegal I guess that comes down to how dummying is interpreted as I doubt it is actually defined in the laws, but with all things rugby it is fine if you can get away with it.
For an unhappy place look at the Wuss forum. The one happy thread on there is the praise for Biggar putting his arm round their no 10 at the end of the match.
I’m sure Shedweb wouldn’t be saying it was illegal or it were on of their own. My take for what it’s worth is that the ‘dummy’ outlawed was a dummy pass from the base to entice players offside and buy a penalty. This was neither a dummy pass nor the intention to force a penalty for offside. So imo all good
Quote:My understanding was the same. No issue.Walks11
I’m sure Shedweb wouldn’t be saying it was illegal or it were on of their own. My take for what it’s worth is that the ‘dummy’ outlawed was a dummy pass from the base to entice players offside and buy a penalty. This was neither a dummy pass nor the intention to force a penalty for offside. So imo all good
Just caught up on the full match and that was great performance. It wasn't perfect and Worcester's defence was unfocused and disorganised at times but that was created by the pace and precision of our hands and running lines. We still made too many errors but playing at this intensity and pace it's likely you'll make some.
Front 5 were excellent like a different team from wasps, particularly the line out. Back row is starting to look really good and having both Augustus and little T gives us far more energy in our carrying throughout the game.
Alex Mitchell was phenomenal, truly back to his best and really shows what he and Biggar can do once our forwards get front foot ball. Hutch and Dingwall were great and when they get their timing spot on it really compensates for their lack of relative size. Back 3 were solid, minus the time Freeman had to pass Sleightholme! Skosan looks a great signing. And as others have said this is without Proctor, Big T and Furbank who arguably on paper should all start.
Sarries upped the level further today, albeit against a depleted wasps and we'll have to step up further to match Leicesters physicality and cut out the errors completely if they are on form.
It's a long way to go and I think it's going to be one of the most competitive seasons but there is so much to be positive about at the moment.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:10:24:17:56:54 by Saintfanh.
Front 5 were excellent like a different team from wasps, particularly the line out. Back row is starting to look really good and having both Augustus and little T gives us far more energy in our carrying throughout the game.
Alex Mitchell was phenomenal, truly back to his best and really shows what he and Biggar can do once our forwards get front foot ball. Hutch and Dingwall were great and when they get their timing spot on it really compensates for their lack of relative size. Back 3 were solid, minus the time Freeman had to pass Sleightholme! Skosan looks a great signing. And as others have said this is without Proctor, Big T and Furbank who arguably on paper should all start.
Sarries upped the level further today, albeit against a depleted wasps and we'll have to step up further to match Leicesters physicality and cut out the errors completely if they are on form.
It's a long way to go and I think it's going to be one of the most competitive seasons but there is so much to be positive about at the moment.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2021:10:24:17:56:54 by Saintfanh.
Skosan has proved to be a terrific find. The only way Big T should be allowed back in is if he can be sucessfully re-educated as a centre -and learn to tackle but that may be a bridge too far. I'll breathe a sigh of relief when he leaves.
Quote:grampian
Skosan has proved to be a terrific find. The only way Big T should be allowed back in is if he can be sucessfully re-educated as a centre -and learn to tackle but that may be a bridge too far. I'll breathe a sigh of relief when he leaves.
Seems very presumptuous and very harsh to me. It will be interesting to see how Nemani Nadolo goes against us next week and how our wingers handle him. I wonder if there will be a call for Big T to come back ...
I'm personally looking forward to big T being back - in a more confident team getting him the ball in space he's always such a threat. If we can ever get most fit at the same time there are a few tactical options now, Skosan looked so effortless taking the high balls, strong in defence and clearly can finish but won't draw in the defence like big T does at his best.
Sorry, only registered users may post in this forum.
Northampton Saints News 24/7
More Northampton Saints headlines
- End of season how the squad was used analysis
- This weeks rugby 1st - 5th July
- Weekend Rugby 27th/28th June
- Weekend Rugby 19th - 20th June 2026
- Weekend Rugby 12th - 14th June 2026
- Weekend Rugby 5th - 7th June 2026
- Weekend Rugby 29th - 31st May 20206
- Weekend Rugby 22nd - 23rd May 2026
- Weekend Rugby 15th - 17th May 2026